Electrical appliance and kitchen retail buying group Sirius reported a “record” attendance at its UK Trade Show at Marshall Arena, home of the MK Dons in Milton Keynes.

The two-day trade show provided a preview of next year’s product trends and offered members’ deals and rewards from brands such as Siemens, Neff, Bosch, Hotpoint, Stoves, Haier, Montpellier, Liebherr, CDA and Caple.

In addition, there was the opportunity of one-to-one technical from product specialists, as well as a cooking demonstration from Hotpoint and light refreshments from BSH.

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Managing director at Sirius Steve Jones commented: “The decision to move to a two-day event at a larger, purpose-built venue was an honest representation of how far we have come since day one, as well as being highly indicative of the direction that the group is headed in terms of serving the independent retailer on a far greater scale.

“None of this would be possible without the ongoing support of our near-200 Members, and the incredible effort that all of our Approved Suppliers put into the Show, as well as the ongoing day-to-day support.

“It does not go unnoticed, and I would like to extend a huge thank you to every brand and your fantastic teams.”

As well as reflecting on the changing nature of retail and using the event to prepare for peak season, Sirius held its award gala dinner.

Area sales manager at Bluestem Group Steve Puzey was awarded Company Representative of the Year award.

Hotpoint was presented the award for Best MDA Stand and Bluestem Group won the award for Best SDA stand.

While Haier secured the Best Stand Member’s Choice award, sealing its popularity with Sirius Members.

The awards gala dinner culminated in a charity auction, which raised £12,000 for Bristol-based charity, the Billie Elizabeth Wood Trust to fundraise for research in subarachnoid haemorrhage,

Sirius also led tributes to co-founder and former director Peter Gilks, following his announcement to retire.

Head of operations at Sirius Buying Group Mark Veysey said: “By bringing so many people together at our UK Trade Show means we’re able to create a unique and welcoming environment to network and ultimately, generate sales through orders.

“I was delighted to see so many retailers mapping out their business strategies, and we look forward to providing fundamental support as our industry continues to evolve.”